St. John, Antigua, April 16, 2013 - (NODS) - Approximately 20 representatives from various communities and government agencies were provided last week with the knowledge and skills needed to make assessments following a disaster.
The individuals were involved in a three-day damage assessment and needs analysis workshop facilitated by Cecil Shillingford, a Consultant with USAID’s Office of Foreign Development Assistance (ODFA).
Upon completion of the April 10-12 course, participants were able to use the correct procedure for gathering data, determine priority needs and propose actions in accordance with established criteria and prepare a damage assessment and needs analysis report using the proposed formats.
Damage assessment is executed during the response stage of disaster management so key agencies can know the various needs and where they are after a disaster.
Shillinford says he considers damage assessment as the second most important matter in disaster after sheltering.
Other topics covered were risk management, measurement of the impact of an event and working as a team.
National Office of Disaster Services (NODS)
American Road
P.O. Box 1399
St. Johns
Antigua
Telephone: (Local)-462-4206;Telephone: (Intl.) 268-460-7075 / 268-562-2144
Fax: 268-462-4742
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